In Brief
A real estate developer appointed to rehabilitate slum dwellers in Mumbai failed to commence construction for over 16 years despite obtaining necessary approvals. The Apex Grievance Redressal Committee terminated the development agreement, and the High Court dismissed the developer's challenge. The Supreme Court upheld the termination, holding that inordinate delay is valid grounds for removal. The Court rejected the developer's fragmented excuses (competing litigation, environmental clearance delays, uncooperative residents, draft plans) and reaffirmed that slum rehabilitation schemes serve the constitutional right to shelter. The Court emphasized the SRA's statutory duty to monitor and enforce timely completion, and directed the Bombay High Court to audit the Act's working given systemic problems.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.